BATTLE CREEK (WKZO-AM) — An Albion man charged with attempting to firebomb a Consumers Energy substation in Battle Creek in June has been ordered to undergo a mental examination to determine if he is competent to stand trial.
Joshua Buchanan, 36, not only has a long criminal history, but he also has a history of psychiatric problems and treatment. He is charged with tossing plastic gasoline cans over the fence at the Elm Street Substation. When his fuse fizzled, he tried to light the cans by flicking lit cigarettes.
He never got them to ignite.
The charges include attempted arson and placing explosives at a vulnerable target, trespassing and attempted vandalism at a public utility.
He has been held on $500,000 bond.